Ellis Lopes is Statia's unofficial ambassador to the arts and culture.
Born on Statia, his early childhood days were spent on Aruba. After graduation he worked for an oil company on Aruba but soon discovered that his talents lied in the arts particularly in dance.
He left Aruba for the U.S.A and was drafted into the U.S. army and stationed in Alaska for 2½ years where, as part of the Anchorage Civic Ballet Company, he trained in ballet.
On discharge from the Army he moved to New York City where he trained in ballroom dancing and jazz. A five-year stint as an instructor with the Fred Astaire Dance Studio followed where he honed his dancing skills.
He does not consider himself a playwright, but his desire to bring forward the problems of the Community is done through play form. His talent has been widely acknowledged.
On his return to Statia he has continued to actively contribute to the community. He currently contributes to the St. Eustatius Historical Foundation, the St. Eustatius Action Theatre and the Statia Folkloric Dance Group.
His plays have been regular participants at Aruba's International Theatre Festival. Plays have also been performed successfully in Belgium, Holland, the Netherlands Antilles, U.S.A. and Canada.
He continues to write, his ninth original stage play entitled "Juggler" is dedicated to abused women and persons with HIV/AIDS. He is currently working a new play entitled "A Sensitive Issue".
Ellis Lopes is Statia's unofficial ambassador to the arts and culture.
